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HB2001
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
H.B. NO.
2001
THIRTY-THIRD LEGISLATURE, 2026
STATE OF HAWAII
A BILL FOR AN ACT
relating
to love my library day
.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF HAWAII:
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SECTION 1.
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The legislature finds that all libraries,
including public libraries, school libraries, and higher education libraries,
are essential for the public good.
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Libraries
are vital community anchors that promote lifelong learning, equity, civic
engagement, and access to information and culture.
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In Hawaii, libraries serve as inclusive and
safe gathering spaces for residents of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities.
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As trusted institutions rooted in the
community, libraries uphold the democratic ideal that knowledge should be
freely available to all, and that every person deserves access to the tools
that are necessary for educational, personal, and professional growth.
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The
legislature further finds that Hawaii's public library system, the only
statewide public library system in the United States, has been a cherished part
of the State's educational and cultural fabric for over a century.
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Across the State, libraries offer more than
books; they provide access to computers and broadband, host cultural
programming, support students and families, foster early literacy, serve kupuna
and veterans, and provide job-seeking resources and business information.
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Many residents, especially those in rural,
underserved, or low-income communities, depend on libraries for access to
essential services that promote upward mobility and civic inclusion.
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The
legislature acknowledges the vital role libraries play in fostering civic
engagement across the United States.
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According
to the American Library Association, roughly ninety per cent of public
libraries help patrons access government services such as voter registration,
tax forms, and social assistance programs.
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Additionally, close to eighty per cent of
libraries provide a meeting space for community organizations and civic
discussions, serving as a trusted, neutral hub for public dialogue.
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Moreover, libraries offer critical services
that foster civic engagement, empowering citizens to think critically and
participate in the country's democracy.
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The
legislature recognizes that in the digital age, libraries have not become obsolete
but have become even more essential.
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According
to the American Library Association, seventy-six per cent of Americans reported
visiting a library in the past year, totaling over 1,300,000,000 visits.
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Furthermore, Americans utilize and visit
public libraries, school libraries, and higher education libraries fifty per cent
more than they go to the movies.
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These
statistics highlight how librarians work tirelessly to adapt to changing
technologies, meet the evolving needs of the public, and support educational
institutions from preschool to postsecondary.
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In times of crisis, such as natural disasters
or public health emergencies, libraries have also functioned as resilience hubs
by providing aid, information, and community support.
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The
legislature additionally finds that school libraries and higher education libraries
play a pivotal role in education and prepare the State's youth for the future,
empowering them to be the best and brightest in society.
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Numerous research studies have demonstrated
that students in schools with school librarians have better outcomes.
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A 2023 study found that North Carolina
students with a full-time school librarian scored significantly higher on
reading and math than similar students who did not have a full-time librarian.
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Furthermore, a 2007 study in Indiana
demonstrated improved test scores for elementary, middle, and high school
students when increased collaboration took place between classroom teachers and
school librarians.
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These statistics
underscore an important truth in the education system that proves students and
schools perform better when there is active collaboration with librarians and
libraries.
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Moreover,
the legislature believes that public awareness and appreciation for libraries
must be cultivated to ensure their continued strength and sustainability.
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Designating a "Love My Library Day"
will not only encourage individuals and families to visit their local libraries
but will also offer an opportunity for communities to celebrate the many ways
libraries enrich their lives.
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Designating a "Love My Library Day" will
also serve as a call to action, highlighting the need for ongoing investment,
volunteerism, and public support to sustain and expand library services for
future generations.
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Accordingly,
the purpose of this Act is to designate the first Friday in February of each
year as "Love My Library Day" in the State to honor the essential
role that libraries and library workers play in strengthening our communities,
expanding access to knowledge, and promoting lifelong learning and aloha across
Hawaii.
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SECTION
2.
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Chapter 8, Hawaii Revised Statutes,
is amended by adding a new section to be appropriately designated and to read
as follows:
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"
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Love My Library Day.
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The first Friday in February of each year shall be known and designated
as "Love My Library Day".
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This
day is not and shall not be construed to be a state holiday.
"
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SECTION
3.
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New statutory material is
underscored.
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SECTION 4.
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This Act shall take effect upon its approval.
INTRODUCED BY:
_____________________________
Report Title:
Love My
Library Day; Observed Day
Description:
Designates
the first Friday in February of each year as "love My Library Day" in
the State.
The summary description
of legislation appearing on this page is for informational purposes only and is
not legislation or evidence of legislative intent.